Reloading the 44 Magnum rifle - questions

[Downeaster]

Hello,

I recently bought a reloading kit (RCBS Partner) with all needed items to load 44 magnum (I have a Marlin 94). Before I even start, I figured I would read the Speer manual (that came with the kit) and other info.

The Speer manual states that 44 magnum loading is safe up to 36,000 PSI (based on SAAMI standards). It also says that all loads in the manual fall within these guidelines.

Fine and dandy so far, However, I also looked in a Hodgton manual and it shows a few recommended loads which go beyond 36,000 PSI (maximum loads). For example:

240 GR Nos JHP

H4227 24 gr 1778fps 36,100 CUP
H110 24 gr 1817fps 36,200 CUP


270 GR SPR GDSP

H4227 22.5 1638fps 37,400 CUP
H110 21.5 1637fps 37,700 CUP

300 GR HDY XTP
H4227 20 1452 38,600 CUP
H110 19 1473 38,800 CUP

I realize that the above are maximum loads, and as a beginner I would not try to push the limit. However, is it really alright to go beyond 36,000 psi in a Marlin rifle? Also, does anybody have some good loads for me to work with? I want some plinking loads and effective hunting loads (soft point and cast).

Much appreciated!

[VTDW]

You do realize that CUP and PSI are two different critters?

[Lone Star]

In fact, 36,000 psi = 40,000 cup.  The two measuring systems measure the same pressure, but in different manners.   While different loading manuals may differ in the maximum pressures they list (for technical or safety reasons), the SAAMI standards remain the same.

36,000 psi exerts a theoretical 5200 lbs of case head thrust on the M94 frame, ca. 15% more than a .30-30 does on the M336.  The .44's thrust is pretty high already for the standard M94; the M336 is "modified" into the M1895 and will handle higher thrust loads, but it is a much larger action than the M94.  My recommendation is not to exceed factory pressure levels in the M94.

[Paul Barnard]

There is really no need to try to hot rod the 44 magnum.  With Remington bulk 240 gr JHP's driven at modest velocities you will get a complete pass through with excellent expansion on most broadside shots on deer.  

A near max load of H110 or AA#9 behind just about any bullet should do anything you want the 44 magnum to do and remain with in safety tolerances.

[oso45-70]

Downeaster

Just like paul said, Stick with the book loadings, You will find they will be plenty hot and since you are loading for a rifle you will get a lot more velosity than a pistol will. I can guarantee you will love your rifle, Good luck and welcome to a world of fun ........Joe.........

[warrior1]

i believe there are loads for the 44mag rifle and the 44 mag pistol.
anyways i found 23 1/2 grains h110 under a 240 gr xtp to do a
nice job. Also, i believe the 270 gr. bullet is more for the 444 marlin
Good luck and enjoy reloading . it can be rewarding.

[pathfinder]

The load that shoots very well in my Marlin 1894 in 44 magnum is a 240 gr JHP Montana Gold bullet over 18.7 gr of 2400 (Alliant's website's listed MAX).  I've been using CCI 350 (magnum) primers but the Book says to use LARGE PISTOL primers.  

I've been getting 1550-1577 fps out of my 20" microgroove barrel.  The accuracy has been very satisfactory with open sights, front rested.

http://www.grovestreet.com/jsp/onepic.jsp?id=1061550

[Coyote Hunter]

Downeaster -

As other have pointed out, theere is a difference between PSI and CUP.

As to the loads, I've used CCI magnum pistol primers, any brass I I had on hand and 24.0g H110 with Speer 240g JSP's for over 20 years.  Lately I've also been using 20.0g H110 wiht Speer's 300g UCSP.

Not a fan of HP's for hunting purposes, but to each their own.